How much do you like ice cream? No, really? Like, a lot?

Published Feb 7, 2013 at 11:29 AM

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SUMMER AND SWEETS: If there was an official sweet for the start of summer, what would it be? A frozen treat on a stick? Chilled fruit? Crushed lemon ice? Those all get our props but, let's be honest, there's only one food that fits the bill here: ice cream. We don't care if there's stuff mixed in it or if it is plain or swirled or there are toppings or nuts or what have you: It's summer food, done and over and out. Yes, we know, you indulge in December, and February, but when the third week of June arrives, and Farrell's Ice Cream Parlour kicks off its annual Ice Cream Challenge, we're reminded of the fact that there's nothing better than a vanilla cone on a sweltering afternoon. So, how good are you at devouring the cold stuff? The challenge opens on Monday, June 18.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: You know that Farrell's is the Victorian-peppy chain that started in the '60s in Oregon and is now based out of Orange County with new owners. You know that there is a Farrell's in Brea. And you now know the challenge opens on June 18. What's next? Go to a Farrell's and register for one of six different challenges (there are men's, women's, and kid's categories, as well as our favorite, the 4-person Zoo Challenge). There are prizes, oh yes, and oh yes, they involve ice cream. Delish. "If you can hold a spoon and eat ice cream, there's a category for you," says the restaurant. All the various categories lead up to championships in mid-July. You'll want to read up before tucking that bib in and heading for Brea. Oh yeah, and brain freeze? That's a summer tradition, too.